DART Transform is a program that focuses on five areas to modernize DART's transit system. The program includes purchasing new light rail vehicles and buses, unifying the signaling system across the rail network, providing level boarding at 23 stations on the Blue and Red lines, and improving passenger facilities including rail stations and bus stops, as well as operations and maintenance facilities.

The anticipated cost for all improvements is approximately $2.5 billion over the next decade.

As work occurs across the DART network, we will share updates with riders for any work that may impact their commute, including at stations or bus stops, ahead of when work activities begin. Should riders be impacted by work activities such as new passenger information display systems being installed at light rail stations or the installation of new bus shelters, DART will share information via service alerts and the Go Pass app. Additionally, riders can look for onsite signage that provides information on work activity impacts or route changes and bus bridges. 

DART is over 40 years old and has spent much of that time expanding its bus and train network to meet the needs of our customers in a growing region. Many of our buses and trains are nearing the end of their usable life, so the cost to maintain our equipment and facilities has gone up making it more cost-effective long-term to purchase new vehicles. Purchasing new vehicles is a necessity to improve the customer experience, enhance safety and replenish assets.

DART is still evaluating how future work activities to raise station platforms will be completed, and the sequence of work by locations. Once plans are further defined, we will share how work activities may impact commuters and stations. Should commuters be impacted, DART will share information on route changes and bus bridges.

Yes, both the new buses and light rail vehicles will have vinyl seating. The vinyl seating is easier to clean and maintain. 

New light-rail vehicles are expected to be in operation beginning in 2031. DART will phase out the oldest light rail train cars, as the new train cars arrive. This is anticipated to take place over four years.

DART previously gathered feedback on the three bus shelter prototypes that were installed in Dallas, Garland, Plano and Richardson in summer 2024. The agency refined the bus shelter designs and in fall 2025, began installing the first of 60 new bus shelters across the system. These new shelters provide enhanced protection from the elements to keep riders comfortable, include real-time arrival displays for up-to-the-minute bus tracking and use solar-powered lighting for added safety and visibility. Bus shelter installations will continue over the next several years.

Yes. DART began installing new ticket vending machines (TVMs) along the existing light rail lines in November 2025. This work was completed in summer 2026. Learn more about the new TVMs.

Improvements being made as part of the DART Transform program are not anticipated to affect the GoPass app or GoLink service. However, DART will use the GoPass app to share notifications with riders on work activities that may impact their commute, just like we do for other work activities or events.